Since the weather prediction was for rain ending mid-morning, we decided to sleep in this morning. The sky cleared a little earlier than anticipated so we headed out on the Yellow Birch Trail to the Blackwater Falls Overlook. Happily, the trail was well marked as it twisted and turned through the woods. There were some pretty views and numerous large boulders. At one point, the path took us through a narrow gap between two huge boulders at least 10 feet high.

What interested me the most was the network of tree roots. The woods are so dense that tree roots are all tangled around each other and it’s nearly impossible to walk 3 steps without tripping over them. Because of the heavy morning rain, there were many muddy areas on the trail making it very difficult. With waterproof boots it would have been OK, but with average walking shoes, it was not pleasant. Near the halfway mark, the trail intersected a service road which connected to the main road. We debated for a couple of minutes about continuing on the trail but decided to follow the road to the overlook. We made it to the overlook in about half the time it would have taken if we had followed the trail.

The falls are beautiful. In our younger days (and with dryer trail conditions), we might have taken a longer trail leading us closer to the falls. Instead, we returned to the lodge along the main road. Along the way, we noticed how prolific rhododendrons grew in the area. Sadly they had already blossomed. However, there were lots of mountain laurels that were still in bloom. Upon our return to the lodge, we enjoyed an early dinner. Then, we relaxed in the lounge reading our books.

Tomorrow morning, we head out on the last leg home and will probably arrive sometime in the afternoon.